YouthBuild offering high school equivalency and so much more to young people

FALL RIVER — Young people who didn’t complete high school will have a chance to earn their high school equivalency and plan a bright future at YouthBuild Fall River.

The community-based youth development program will begin its next 10-month program later this month.

Young men and women, ages 16 to 24, are invited to attend an informational session, held each Wednesday at 11 a.m., at YouthBuild Fall River, 45 Rock St.

“We do a lot,” said YouthBuild program manager Nicole Rioux. “We pack a lot into 10 months.”

Youth split their time between education and construction, learning basic carpentry skills and completing their academics to take the HiSET (GED) test.

Students will find benefits like free testing, earning a stipend up to $200 every two weeks, and earning up to $1,500 with an AmeriCorps education award toward college. Students will also get free transportation, skills training, assistance with job placement in the field of their choice, and more.

“Be here, be present, and engage in the program” is the only requirement, Rioux said. “They must be invested in their transformation.”

Rioux said the students will use their burgeoning carpentry skills in the community. In the past, they’ve built walls, helped paint the interior of an apartment building, and even worked on a tiny house.

In addition to preparing for their GED, Rioux said students can receive mental health services, and learn resume writing, interviewing techniques, life skills to increase their independence, and more.

“We want them to leave and have their own apartment and car,” Rioux said.

Students can get help entering into a local trade union or pursuing a career of their choice.

“It’s not just for trades,” Rioux said.

Those interested in health care can train to be a certified nursing assistant.

She said YouthBuild has partnerships with many local entities like Bristol Community College, the state of Massachusetts, and others. They plan to start new partnerships for students interested in manufacturing and culinary arts.

Former students work in union positions in a variety of trades like plumbing, carpentry and electrical. Others have careers in health care, human services, retail, restaurant, as barbers and stylists, and as CDL drivers.

“They’ve been helping me out with whatever I need,” said former student Ian O’Neil, 19, of Somerset. “They’ve sent me in the right direction.”

O’Neil graduated from the program, received his GED, and is joining a local carpenters’ union. He said he plans to continue his education and become a plumber, as well. He’d like to start his own business one day.

“There’s so many things they can help you with,” O’Neil said.

YouthBuild will accept 25 to 40 students into the upcoming program. And, they’re anxious to get started.

“It breathes life back into the program” said Director Joe Barakat. “The kids are what drive the day.”

YouthBuild Fall River, a program of the Old Colony YMCA, invites youth to attend an informational session. They can also visit or call 508-678-1975.

“We’re the best game in town,” Rioux said. “We offer a lot more.”

Email Deborah Allard at dallard@heraldnews.com.